One-third of Argyll is covered in forest; walking and cycling areas abound with marked trails through the forests and woods (the Caledonian Oak Forest is a nature reserve, with charcoal burners from the 18th and 19th centuries still in evidence). There are also several Munros* nearby for hardened walking enthusiasts. Bikes can be hired at the Dalavich Village Shop (4 miles away) - the area is ripe for exploring!
Fishing on Loch Awe directly below April Cottage Boats can be hired from Dalavich and fishing in Loch Awe can reap salmon, sea trout, pike, wild browns, char, occasional large rainbows, and perch. (British record for wild brown caught in Loch Awe) Fishing by permit only - available in Dalavich. Click on the map for a larger image Oban has many shops and caters to the tourist with a vast range of tartan wares including clothing and rugs. Also available, Scottish foods, jewellery, paintings, restaurants and its own Oban Distillery (est 1794), which is well worth a visit. On the pier some of the freshest fish are sold via local fishing boats. Visit McCaigs Tower, if only for the view. Many tours to the islands leave from here, we recommend the Treshnish Isles tour which includes a visit to Fingal's Cave, and Lunga (bird sanctuary) populated with many puffins, kittiwakes, shags, razorbills, cormorants, seals, and more...
Taynuilt has a butcher's shop renowned amongst locals and visitors alike for its outstanding meat. Groceries can be delivered to April Cottage from Taynuilt (there is a delivery charge) and will be delivered via the local bus! Taynuilt also has a doctors' surgery, hairdressing salon, a railway station and nine-hole golf course. Nearby is world renowned Inverawe Smokeries, again well worth a visit for some wonderful smoked fish, cheese, etc. (see link at foot of page)
The Kilchrenan Inn (4 miles away from April Cottage) is a wonderful country pub. Perfect for a wee dram, warm and inviting even on the warmest (or coldest) of days, the Inn also serves delicious meals (call for opening times which vary depending on time of year). Also in the area for excellent dining is the Taychreggan Hotel and the Ardanaiseig Hotel. Four miles away in the other direction is the country cafe and post office at Dalavich which serves meals, and provisions.
A trip to Kilmelford turning left out of April Cottage and right at the Kilmelford signpost will take you on a magical mystery tour of winding single track road - turns taking you to some breathtaking scenery of hills and lochs, - don't be in a rush, you will want to take in every bit of this scenery. The trip will take about half an hour. When you reach Kilmelford visit the Village Shop on your right as you enter Kilmelford with its selection of organic, home-made and Scottish produce, and have something to eat upstairs in the Quaich where delicious home-made food is served.
Just outside the village of Taynuilt is a treasure of a garden. Angus's Garden consists of nine acres of woodland and was created in memory of Betty Macdonald's son Angus. With stunning views, its most prominent feature in the spring are the many beautiful rhododendrons and azaleas. A large pond is home to swans and ducks. This tranquil area has three colour coded walks, and is well worth a visit. From the village of Taynuilt take Glen Lonan Road, turning by Taynuilt Hotel, approx 2 miles on the right. For more information on gardens in Argyll, click on the following link: http://www.gardens-of-argyll.co.uk/
**Harry Potter Fans!** This is your chance to ride over the Glenfinnan viaduct featured in the Harry Potter films. Take the Jacobite Steam Train from Fort William to Mallaig. For details enquire at the Oban Tourist Board (see link at foot of page)
*Munro - Mountain over 3000 ft For your information we have detailed below the Country Code: Enjoy the countryside and respect its life and work
Take Nothing but
Pictures ......and for your convenience we have included some links to explore:
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